SEBOKENG.- In the past Sedibeng produced great match officials in South African football with George Tladi, and Jonas Nhlapo being the most notable names who made a name for themselves in refereeing.
No doubt, Joseph Makhubo seems to be following in their footsteps if his current performance in top-flight football is anything to go. Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, when he was on duty as the fourth official during the DSTV Diski Challenge fixture between Amazulu and Sekhukune United at Isek Steyl Stadium, Makhubo said his ambition is to have a FIFA badge.
He told Sedibeng Ster Sport that he wants to see himself officiating on the biggest stage of football in the world. Makhubo’s rise to stardom was not an easy one, however, he told Sedibeng Ster Sport it was not as easy as people think and that it needs a lot of patience, determination, and commitment. When asked what motivated him to become a referee, he said that when was in high school was asked to to be a referee in one of the finals and that this is how he developed an interest in refereeing.
“I read in the newspaper about Mr. Jack Leboko who develops referees and I called him but he advised me to finish my studies first because I was in matric. Indeed after matric, I joined his academy and this is where I learned a lot about refereeing.
“However, I must say, it is not easy to be a referee starting at the lower division because there is no money and you use your own money to travel to the game. The match fee money is not enough for transport especially when you travel from Vaal to Pretoria to officiate league games. But I wanted this badly and I was determined to make a lot of sacrifices and here I am today doing what I love most. Before you become a successful referee you must first suffer,” he said.
Makhubo was promoted to officiate in PLS three seasons ago and his debut as the middle man was the DSTV Premiership match between Cape Town City and Sekhukune United. His First Division League debut was top of the table between Cape Town Spurs and Sekhukune United.
He told Sedibeng Ster Sport the game ended in a goalless draw and he had a great game.
